Categories: Uncategorized

Georgia Secures $55 Million to Tackle Opioid Crisis Amid National Settlement

Georgia to Receive $55 Million for Opioid Crisis Support

Augusta, Ga. – Attorney General Chris Carr announced that Georgia will receive over $55 million aimed at enhancing access to treatment, prevention, and recovery services for individuals affected by the opioid epidemic. This significant funding comes as part of a broader $1.37 billion settlement agreement involving Kroger Co. and a coalition of 30 states bipartisanly working to combat opioid-related issues.

Funding Breakdown

Under this agreement, South Carolina is also set to receive approximately $18 million dedicated to opioid abatement services. Payments for the South Carolina initiative are anticipated to commence early next year. Carr emphasized that these funds are crucial in the fight against the opioid crisis, stating, “We’re fighting this battle on multiple fronts by declaring war on fentanyl and holding accountable those who have contributed to this crisis in the first place.”

The Epidemic’s Impact

The opioid epidemic, which began in the 1990s, has resulted in increased opioid prescriptions and a devastating rise in overdose deaths across the United States. In Georgia alone, the state’s Department of Public Health reported a shocking 302% increase in opioid-related deaths from 2010 to 2022. Most of these increases are believed to be driven by fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid often mixed with illegal drugs such as cocaine and heroin.

Accountability and Future Plans

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson acknowledged that while no amount of money can compensate for lives lost, these funds will be instrumental in treating addiction. He remarked, “We will continue to go after those responsible for the opioid crisis to hold them accountable.” Wilson’s sentiments reflect a growing commitment among state officials to address the crisis at both state and national levels.

Regulatory Measures

As part of the settlement with Kroger, which is expected to pay up to $1.4 billion over the next 11 years, the company has also agreed to implement injunctive relief measures. These measures will require Kroger pharmacies to monitor and report any suspicious activity concerning opioid prescriptions, thereby enhancing oversight and reducing the possibility of misuse.

Local Concerns and Developments

Moving Forward


HERE Spartanburg

Share
Published by
HERE Spartanburg

Recent Posts

Major Revival Coming to Downtown Spartanburg with $800 Million Development Projects

Major Revival Coming to Downtown Spartanburg with $800 Million Development Projects A major, transformational change…

2 hours ago

Social Media’s Impact: South Carolina’s Most Socially Connected Counties Revealed

Exploring Social Connectivity: Making Sense of the Numbers One of the profound changes our digital…

2 hours ago

Upstate Habitat and BMW Collaborate to Build Affordable Homes in Greer

Upstate Habitat Teams Up with BMW for Community Home Build in Greer Greer, SC: In…

2 hours ago

Greenville Community Rallies for Youth Support at 16th Annual Clemson-Carolina Pep Rally Fundraiser

Greenville's Big Brothers Big Sisters Steps Up for Youth Hey, Greenville! It's that wonderful time…

2 hours ago

Democrats Struggle to Shift Political Winds in Spartanburg Despite Efforts of Priority Six

The Wind of Change Blows Evaporates in Spartanburg We were hopeful for a bright and…

2 hours ago